Although Penn normally never stops operating, emergencies such as severe weather conditions may sometimes result in the cancellation of classes and/or the full or partial closure of certain areas of the University. Decisions affecting work schedules and class cancellation are made by the Executive Vice President in consultation with the Provost.

The University will announce a closing or other modification of work schedules through the following means:

• the UPennAlert Emergency Notification System (for University related incidents and crises)

The University’s emergency radio identification code numbers are “102” for day classes and schools/centers and “2102” for evening classes. The message that accompanies the code number will provide the operating status of the University. Make sure to keep this emergency information in a place you can easily access.

Even when Penn is officially closed due to an emergency, there are some essential services that must still be provided, such as Public Safety or Facilities. Staff members in essential positions are still required to work as normally scheduled under these circumstances.

Editor’s Note: This is the policy formerly known as the Emergency Closing Policy.

... Snow Day Child Care

It is not too late to register for Penn’s Snow Day Child Care program. This service, available to Penn faculty and staff with children 12 weeks to 12 years of age, provides child care whenever the Philadelphia County Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather but Penn is open for business. Children who attend school in other districts are also welcome on days that Philadelphia public schools are closed.

Snow Day Child Care is available weekdays 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. through April 3, 2009. Child care is provided by the Penn Children’s Center at the Left Bank Commons, 3160 Chestnut Street.

Children must be pre-registered in order to participate. To pre-register, complete the online application found at www.business-services.upenn.edu/childcare/art.htmland return it to the Penn Children’s Center. If you need assistance with enrollment or specific information about the services that are provided, contact the Penn Children’s Center at (215) 898-5268 or jcao2@exchange.upenn.edu.

Please note that all registrations must be completed before you can use Snow Day Child Care and a new registration is required each year. Registration forms cannot be accepted on the day that care is requested.